Approach
From Taos, take Route 555 through Potato Canyon. Take a left at the next junction into Caliente Canyon, continuing along the Vermejo River, through Vermejo Park and past Whiteman Vega. From here, continue up toward the Rock Wall, through Windy Gap, past Shuree Ponds, and finally to the Corral. This area is an excellent place to begin the ascent up the southern ridge of the mountain.
Route Description
From the Corral, begin hiking north up the ridge that forms the southern end of Little Costilla. There are no trails, but once you reach the top it is fairly easy to find your way along the county fenceline. Continue along the ridge, and over the five false peaks until you reach the summit. From here it is convenient to stay in Elk Meadows, directly below on the east side of the mountain. The total distance from the Corral to the summit is about three miles.
Essential Gear
There are no rock faces to climb here. The only required gear is protection from the wind and cold weather at the summit.
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Sangre de Cristo Mountains
